Despite missing the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season, the Philadelphia Phillies had a few bright spots in 2020 — particularly at the plate. One was the emergence of rookie Alec Bohm.
The former third overall pick hit .338 in 160 at-bats with 11 doubles, four home runs, and 23 RBI. Bohm held his own defensively, committing four errors in 37 starts. All told, his efforts were good enough for second place in Rookie of the Year voting. What’s in store for 2021 for the 24-year-old?
Predicting how Alec Bohm will fare in his second season with the Phillies
It’s always difficult to predict what will happen with a young player. Some have great rookie seasons and then fall off drastically after pitchers adjust. Some players take longer to come into their own, struggling as a rookie, and then take off. One benefit Bohm has is hitting in a lineup filled with accomplished players, such as Bryce Harper, Andrew McCutchen, J.T. Realmuto, and Didi Gregorius.
Two most likely scenarios for Bohm would be to hit fifth, behind Realmuto and in front of Gregorius, or second in front of Harper. In either case, Bohm should see plenty of good pitches to hit. Not a huge power threat, Bohm is more of a gaps hitter who hit .293 with 36 doubles and 21 home runs in 165 minor-league games.
Certainly, Bohm will continue to get stronger and likely become a player that can hit 25 home runs per year at some point. Defensively, there are still questions about whether he can excel at third base, but it appears first base would be a better long-term fit. However, with Rhys Hoskins at first base, that isn’t currently an option unless Hoskins is dealt at some point — although the Phillies are hoping to be buyers rather than sellers this season at the trade deadline.
The best bet for the 2021 season is for Bohm to hit 30 doubles, reach 15 to 20 home runs, and hit a shade below .300. If he does that and plays above-average defense at third base, it should be considered a highly successful sophomore season.